KC Concepcion’s fight against hunger

MANILA, Philippines – The World Food Programme (WFP) emphasized that hunger and malnutrition are the world’s greatest health risk; even greater than AIDS, malaria, and tuberculosis combined.

Unicef reported in 2013 about the country’s “insufficient progress” in putting an end to hunger.

Aside from being part of the 38 countries that account for 90% of the global burden of malnutrition, the Philippines also ranks 28th in the world when it comes to hunger, based on its Global Hunger Index score.

In 2013, the country obtained a Global Hunger Index score of 13.2. Despite this being lower than 1990’s 19.9, the hunger situation in the country is still categorized as “serious.” By the end of 2013, more Filipinos were still hungry.

While there have been attempts to improve the hunger situation through school feeding programs, for example, hunger still persists, the Food Policy Research Institute said.

Doing her bit to help alleviate hunger, celebrity Kristina Cassandra “KC” Concepcion has been working with WFP since 2008 as National Ambassador Against Hunger. 

On Rappler, KC shared her personal experiences and insights about the hunger situation in the country. As ambassador, she said it is part of her job to “help WFP make hunger a bigger issue, so that it is seen as important as poverty and AIDS.”

Daughter of two local movie stars and stepdaughter of a senator, KC is one of the strongest social advocates among the youth. She has been part of numerous charity events that have raised awareness about WFP operations. 

KC discussed how hunger can be stopped and how it is a big issue that needs to be  addressed not only by government but ordinary citizens too, especially the youth. 

Rappler’s #HungerProject, in partnership with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and WFP, aims to create awareness that will lead to informed action to put an end to hunger in the Philippines. It also drives to mobilize response among government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and citizens.

Watch the interview below.

– Rappler.com